Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that belongs to the cabbage family. Not only is it tasty, it is also packed with a lot of nutrients. It is, therefore, considered a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Some of the nutrients in broccoli are folic acid, beta carotene, calcium, fiber, and vitamin C. Broccoli is a great source of calcium for those who do not consume dairy products. Broccoli is also rich in fiber content. It contains both soluble and insoluble fibers and can help to meet the needs of both types of fibers. Due to the presence of antioxidants, beta carotene, and vitamin C Broccoli helps to reduce the risk of diseases like cancer, heart disease, etc.
Since broccoli is loaded with so many nutrients and good qualities, it helps to combat many health disorders. Brocolli also has cancer fighting properties. Eating broccoli sprouts can prevent stomach cancer, peptic ulcer, and gastritis. Broccoli also helps to protect the skin and thereby reduces the risk of skin cancer.
Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables are regarded as must-have foods as they can lower the risk of cancer. Broccoli contains two important photochemicals, namely, indoles and isothiocyanates. In addition to an array of nutrients, broccoli can shield our body from disease. Sulforaphane present in broccoli can increase the enzymes present in our body that can hinder cancer causing agents. Photochemicals may act as antioxidants and can boost detoxifying enzymes in the body. By altering the estrogen levels in the body, it reduces the risk of breast cancer as well.
When the pathway of DNA methylation is blocked, the risk of cardiovascular disease, immune function, and neurodegenerative disease are increased. Sulforaphane present in broccoli can stimulate the methylation path to normal gene expression and prevent the cancer cell genesis.
Another important benefit of broccoli is its cholesterol-lowering property. Broccoli cooked by steaming enhances the excretion of bile acid and thereby helps in lowering cholesterol levels. When broccoli has been steamed, the fiber content can bind together with the bile acids effectively. That’s why the cholesterol lowering effect is higher in steamed broccoli rather than raw broccoli.
Broccoli also contains glucoraphanin, gluconasturtiian, and glucobrassicin, which stimulate the body’s detox process. It enhances the process of activation, neutralization, and elimination of unwanted particles.
Broccoli has Vitamin A in the form of beta carotene as well as Vitamin K. This combination helps to keep vitamin D metabolism in balance and thereby helps to treat any deficiency of vitamin D. Broccoli is also rich in magnesium, which is good for the kidneys as it discourages the formation of kidney stones.
Broccoli is a rich source of kaempferol, a flavonoid that can lessen the impact of allergy related substances in our body. This flavonoid is the reason for broccoli’s anti-inflammatory benefits and makes it an important ingredient in a hypoallergenic diet. Broccoli is good for a sore throat as it helps to strengthen the immune system and helps to fight any kind of infection. Eating broccoli sprouts daily can also reduce the chances of cataract. Broccoli contains folic acid, which is vital for proper development of fetus without any defects. That’s why broccoli is considered as a boon for pregnant women.
Owing to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it is great for asthma patients. The rich vitamin C content helps to ease polyarthritis condition. Easy bruising, which develops due to vitamin C deficiency, can also be overcome by eating broccoli regularly. When eating broccoli, make sure you chew it with all your teeth as it is an excellent tooth whitening agent as well.
Broccoli is one of the effective home remedies for osteoporosis. Being an excellent source of calcium and vitamin C, regularly adding broccoli in diet is an excellent way to keep osteoporosis at bay. It helps to reduce sugar levels as well.
Overall, broccoli is a nutrient deficiency fighter and an immunity boosting food.
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